The Virginia Robinson Gardens Is Beverly Hills’ Best-Kept Secret

Would you be intrigued to know there is a secret garden in Southern California? There are so many places in Southern California that will take your breath away. No matter what side of SoCal you love the most—the beaches, the mountains, or even the desert—there's one thing almost all of us can agree on, and that's the delight experienced when stumbling upon a hidden gem.

If you love exploring new pockets of SoCal, you will be filled with glee when you see this beautiful secret garden that's a true masterpiece. The Virginia Robinson Gardens is quite possibly the dreamiest place in Southern California. In fact, you could say it is one of the best gardens in Southern California. Located on the former Robinson Estate in Beverly Hills, this 6.2-acre property is home to five of the city's most spectacular themed gardens, including a rose garden and an Italian terrace garden.

If you're wondering where on earth this stunning gem has been hiding, you can visit it in person at 1008 Elden Way in Beverly Hills. At first glance, this may look like private property, but it's entirely open to the public. Although it was once private long ago, this historic beauty has since been donated to the Los Angeles County Parks and Recreation Department.

As part of the public parks system, this heavenly oasis is open to the public for docent-led tours so you can see this gem up close and in person. Every inch of this property is packed with lush greenery and fragrant, colorful flowering plants. During a guided tour, you'll stroll along picturesque walking paths that will completely take your breath away.

The Virginia Robinson Gardens is more than just a secret garden in Beverly Hills. It's also home to a touch of SoCal history. Built in 1911, the Robinson Mansion just so happens to be the oldest estate in Beverly Hills. Since 1978, the entire site has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

When you step inside the gardens, be prepared to see magical scenery that will make you feel like you've been dropped inside the most beautiful jungle. In addition to the gardens, you can step inside the historic mansion, wander through its decorated courtyards, and see the estate’s historic pool.

It's fun to imagine what life must have been like living on this spectacular estate. Rumor has it that the former Robinson family threw some of the most stunning and memorable parties in town. It was one of Beverly Hills’ earliest social hotspots.

Tours, events, and classes at the Virginia Robinson Gardens are by reservation only. You can contact the garden by phone at (310) 550-2040 or visit the Robinson Gardens website for more information regarding scheduling a tour. If you're headed to Beverly Hills, consider checking out this celebrity home tour. For more California fun, check out this island adventure by watching our OnlyInYourState video:

If you'd like to explore a few more Southern California gardens that all have their own unique charm, you can find more stunning garden settings that will make you appreciate all the outdoor beauty there is in SoCal.